Who needs a sand bunker , when a cow pat will do?

Developed in Holland in 1999 by a Dutch farmer, called Peter Weenink, "Farmers' Golf" started as a bit of fun when Weenink, a cheesmaker maker to trade, had the brainwave to attach an old clog to a long stick and thwack a ball around. At first he used the clog club to practice his swing in the cow field but soon learned the orthodox golf ball was too small to use in bumpy farmland with cow present, so he took a bigger ball. By the time he had put together a 10 hole course, with cow dung and puddles posing deliberate challenges, rather than the velvety turf of a golf course. The game now called clog club became popular with his friends because many if them were infuriated by the prohibitive prices and elitism of traditional golf clubs. In the Netherlands, golfers need to pass an exam to be allowed onto a course. New Farmers' Golf courses are springing up almost every week and the game is expected to attract up to half a million players next year. The clog club has proved particularly popular in the Netherlands, where clogs are a well-loved national symbol, but the sport has now spread to neighbouring Belgium and Germany. The Belgians have even won an international Farmers' Golf title, much to chagrin of the Dutch.

Posh's Bunions: Spice girl becomes slice girl

When the wife of former England captain, David Beckham was spotted hobbling around Madrid last year with painful-looking bunions protruding through her sandals the eyes of the world fell to Victoria’s feet. The foot police were quick to condemn the Spice Girl as a slave to fashion and victim of high heels. Mrs Beckham had confided in friends her bunions were giving her gyp and she was looking to have something done. Victoria revealed, “I hate my feet, they are the most disgusting thing about me. Part of the reason I wear such amazing shoes is to take the eye away from my horrid feet and on to the stunning shoes.” Sore feet are no fun and people living with aching ‘plates of meat’ usually get little sympathy, so lets hope the high profile Essex Girl can champion the foot weary, if for only a short while.

Does my bunion look big in these sandals ?

A bunion is an inflamed fluid filled sac which lies superficial to the skin surface over a bony joint. The fluid filled sac is called a bursa and helps protect vulnerable parts of the body, sometimes these arise naturally and others from shearing stress across the joint. Excess and prolonged damage from friction aggravates the bursa and an inflammatory response results causing the sac to become hot, red and swollen with pain a common symptom. Rest will reverse the process but if the situation continues then the condition becomes chronic with permanent colour changes. Ironically the chronic condition is rarely painful but complications do arise in the joint beneath and osteoarthritis (arthritis) causes joints to fuse which can become very painful, especially in the acute stages. Joint limitation hastens deterioration and when this is in the presence of systemic disorders such as rheumatoid disease or gout, then the condition can become extremely painful. A bursa can be removed by a simple surgical procedure but re-occurrence is likely especially when friction continues. The cause of bursitis is friction and shear between the skin surface and any resistance i.e. usually from part of the shoe. Ill fitting footwear should be avoided if a bursitis is to be avoided. A closer examination of Posh’s pre surgery feet would support the lady did not have bunions. She did however exhibit classic hallux abducto valgus (used to be known as hallux valgus). The hallux or big toe is made up of two phalanges which are joined at a joint that usually fuses (painless) with age. The position of the hallux gives critical information about the function of the ball of the foot and in particular the main pivot of the body. When it is deviated as in hallux abducto-valgus the big toe slants toward the outside of her foot (over the smaller toes) and this is an abducted position; the position of the great toe nail confirms a longitudinal twist of the great toe with base of the toe facing the outside of the foot (the nail is tilted toward the inside), this fixed plane rotation is called a valgus position. Even closer scrutiny reveals the big toe of each foot sticks up (dorsi flexed) from the rest of the bones. Together these movements represent three planes of motion (triplane motion) across a joint which has naturally only two free planes of movement available to it. This can only arise if the joint between the big toe and the ball of the foot is partially dislocated (subluxated). Ninety per cent of bi peds have to some degree a partial dislocation of their big toe joints all their lives and to that effect hallux abducto valgus is more normal than most people realise. However when subluxation arises with destructive wear and tear on the joint surfaces the condition becomes very painful and often requires surgical intervention. For most people who suffer painful HAV they have inherited the bone structures which predisposes them to the condition. Trauma and or disease will occasionally account for disarticulation of the big toe but shoes are rarely the primary cause although they may excite a bunion. There are over a 130 different operations that can be undertaken to deal with hallux valgus, many of which involve cutting the bone (prominence), where ever possible however greatest emphasis is given to preserving joint continuity and the function of the foot subsequently reconstructive surgery has made many advances. The available published studies seem to indicate reoccurrence of HAV is high post surgery but patient satisfaction surveys appear to show client s are very happy with their new feet. Preventing HAV is literally impossible albeit exercises and foot orthoses including shoes are popular. In the US there is an internet talk show called Life After Bunions, where who knows we may see Mrs Beckham in the near future. My only advice to her apart from take a rest is do not tell Tom Cruise a close friend of the Beckhams and podophobe) you have had foot surgery.

Louis Vuitton shoes definitely vital

A pair of Louis Vuitton shoes has linked a suspect to the largest secret drug laboratory in Australia. The crown alleged to a Sydney court recently that DNA of the accused had been found on a pair of his designer shoes implicating him in a serious crime. Forensic testing of the shoes, provided a match with the DNA of the man in the dock.

Big feet - big business

When considering starting jogging/running either for fitness or training is a good pair of running shoes. Retailers who specialise in running shoes and apparel are best and they will fit the shoes to specific needs. Some shops now offer a full running analysis using pressure plate analysis. Illumination of peak pressures many assist shoe fit but there is no substitute for a test run. Shoe fitting persons with a sports background are important if you wish to avoid novelty fashion and have appropriate shoes fitted. Most serious sportspeople are brand loyal so it is easy to be influenced by their comments but sports shoes need to be suitable for individual needs. Good fitting shoes should be comfortable, adequate for activities and provide protection and support. Well worn sports shoes increase the risk of injury and foot problems. Always wear comfortable shoes for competition and never compete in new shoes as this can cause blisters and sore feet. Shoe endorsement is an important part of marketing but it is well worth remembering shoe deals involving major sports people will include footwear which is made for the individual’s feet (as opposed to off the shelf shoes). For example, Shaq O'Neal's is7’1” and so getting a pair of shoes top fit in the local shoe store would be fraught with problems. Latest seven foot acquisition to the Nike stable is Greg Oden, although the multi-year deal and terms remain undisclosed. Nike also has endorsement deals with NBA stars LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash, among others.

What Big Feet does?

When considering starting jogging/running either for fitness or training is a good pair of running shoes. Retailers who specialise in running shoes and apparel are best and they will fit the shoes to specific needs. Some shops now offer a full running analysis using pressure plate analysis. Illumination of peak pressures many assist shoe fit but there is no substitute for a test run. Shoe fitting persons with a sports background are important if you wish to avoid novelty fashion and have appropriate shoes fitted. Most serious sportspeople are brand loyal so it is easy to be influenced by their comments but sports shoes need to be suitable for individual needs. Good fitting shoes should be comfortable, adequate for activities and provide protection and support. Well worn sports shoes increase the risk of injury and foot problems. Always wear comfortable shoes for competition and never compete in new shoes as this can cause blisters and sore feet. Shoe endorsement is an important part of marketing but it is well worth remembering shoe deals involving major sports people will include footwear which is made for the individual’s feet (as opposed to off the shelf shoes). For example, Shaq O'Neal's is7’1” and so getting a pair of shoes top fit in the local shoe store would be fraught with problems. Latest seven foot acquisition to the Nike stable is Greg Oden, although the multi-year deal and terms remain undisclosed. Nike also has endorsement deals with NBA stars LeBron James, Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash, among others.

Democratization, my arse!

According to experts Celebrity branding makes it easy for a company to a sell a brand because it becomes a talking point. Not sure about that particularly after a visit to my local Target where the sign read, “Last chance to buy Stella McCartney Originals.” Maybe consumers are not so gullible. In any event Sarah Jessica Parker has joined the band of celebs trying to democratize fashion with their own rock bottom priced clothing collections through Steve & Barry’s. The actress worked with two designers from Steve & Barry's to develop the line, which includes suit separates, shirts, dresses, lingerie, denim, T-shirts, nightgowns, cashmere sweaters, swimwear and other items. Bitten is the name of the brand and Sarah is hoping to indent into the competitive market place where already Madonna, Kate Moss, Jennifer Lopez, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, among others have filled the shelves. With nothing in Bitten's 500-piece collection more than $19.98(US), and sizes range from 2 to 20 all looks favourable. Steve & Barry's are best known for their inexpensive college apparel and $14.98 Starbury One sneaker. No idea whether spouse of British, Labor Prime Minister, Cherie Blair will be seen in Bitten gear but she has been spotted wearing Dune shoes. Dune is a UK, mid market company which sells sandals and likes to claim it has a large celebrity following. (albeit Cherie does not appear on the website list). Boo hoo! Not much chance Angelina Jolie will be wearing any shoes when she visits Cambodia . The 32-year-old Hollywood Siren admits her eldest son is not too happy with the idea but Mom thinks it is important young Maddox lives the Cambodian experience and likes to walk barefoot across the rocks and then eat a cricket. How patronising. I think I would prefer to wear my new Cloggens.

Here after life for tyres

New trend is rubber soled sandals made from old tyres. Sambaru sandals are made for extreme sport with the sole cut from tyre treads. The shoes are both hard wearing and have superb grip properties from the tread. The straps have a recycled lined sidewall to give them strength as well as comfort. The sandals are made by people who live in the slum called Kibera on the outskirts of Nairobi, Kenya. UK based Jambo-Jambo is now the UK importer for the Maasai Treads range of handmade sandals, boots and bags and subscribers to a Fair Trade policy that ensures workers are fairly recompensed for their products. Maasai Treads are based on a design worn by African tribes people. Regional variation on sandal design are caught in the Diani and Kilifi Sandals range which also incorporate tyre tread soles and inner tube straps. Masai tread boots combine leather and inner-tube uppers with the traditional Maasai Treads tyre sole. Inner tube toe caps feature an original puncture patch which adds to their authenticity. As well as helping provide a sustainable income for the families, the Masai Treads are also eco-friendly. By using the rubber tyres to make the shoes it saves them being sent to land fill sites or even burnt.

Falls are a steep learning curve

A prospective study was undertaken recording the data of all roller shoes injuries referred to an A&E department during the summer school holiday. Over a 10-week period, 67 children suffered orthopedic injuries while using Heelys or Street Gliders. There were 56 girls and 11 boys with a mean age of 9.6 years. Upper limbs were the most common location of injury. Distal radius fractures (forearm) were the most prevalent, followed by supracondylar fractures, elbow dislocations, and hand fractures. The majority of children suffered the injury while heeling or street gliding outdoors. 20% of the injuries happened while trying Heelys or Street Gliders for the first time, and 36% of the injuries occurred while learning (using 1–5 times) how to use them. None of the children used any sort of protective gear at the time of the injury. The majority of the injured children expressed their intention to continue heeling or street gliding after complete recovery from their injury. This report the single largest prospective epidemiologic study of orthopedic injuries in children that resulted from the increasingly popular new activities heeling and street gliding during the school summer holiday. To reduce the rate of such injuries, parents buying roller shoes need to understand both the benefits and risks of this activity. Children and their parents should appreciate that injuries are particularly common in novice users and those more adventurous advanced users. Full protective gear needs to be used at all times, including a helmet, wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads, when using roller shoes. Wrist guards should always be worn to reduce impact forces and distribution when a child falls on the outstretched hand, because upper-limb trauma constitutes 86.5% of our cases. Special attention should be paid to the needs of novice skaters to avoid injuries. We recommend that a safe-use guide be provided with each pair of roller shoes. An induction demonstration on safe use should be provided by retail outlets at the time of purchase of these roller shoes.

Regerence
Vioreanu M, Sheehan E, Glynn A, Casidy N, Stephens M, McCormack D. 2007 Heelys and Street Gliders Injuries: A New Type of Pediatric Injury
Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery Department, Temple Street Children's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland

Kick the habit: tobacco pedicure

The fashion for nude feet via flip flops has given rise to foot accessory as the by word for style this season. Contrasting nail paints are a must with many fashionista complementing their tanned feet and legs with yellow or gold toe nails. Nail enamel has seen a renaissance with pink proving a very popular shade with thongs and peekaboos. But take care if you are a beach babe or pool chick, because the sun's rays and chlorine can fade even the most expensive nail paint. So remember slip, slap slop with a suitable sun blocker and use a UV top coat for your nails. Luxury pedicure has also seen remarkable increase with a relaxing slow, soothing massage with essential oils and detoxifying tobacco leaves, favoured by many foot lovers.
....And here is me stopped smoking.

Flip flops and sumptuary law

Oldham Council in Greater Manchester have apparently banned staff from wearing flip flop to work due to health and safety fears. The ban is part of something the council call the ‘spills, trips and falls policy’. The council is concerned that flimsy footwear, such as thongs, encourage trips and falls in the work place. Whilst there is little independent evidence to show flip flop sandals are any more likely to cause tumbles that any other footwear, the embargo probably has more to do with the employers duty of care to prevent people at work from having an accident. Most obvious cause would be trauma to the foot due to a falling object and flip flop styled sandals are ideal for crossing flat surfaces whereas unkept floors or untidy walking surfaces would increase the potential to trip , slip or fall. Falls studies have identified women are more likely to trip and men slip. When a fall has taken place men will try to avoid another , whereas women are reluctant to change their shie and walking habits and hence more prone to a career of falls. In the great scheme of things most falls occur when the person is rushing and occupied usually attempting two things at the one time. In the ambulant, more people fall backwards than forwards, tend to fall more on flat surfaces then stairs and all falls are more likely to occur in bright light rather than dim conditions, with most falls happening in the afternoon.

Shoes are not just shoes: Stop the War!

In January 2004, The Eyes Wide Open was housed at the Chicago's Federal Plaza with 504 pairs of shoes on display. Since then, the exhibit has brought more than 3,400 pairs of boots to more than 100 cities in 40 states. Eyes Wide Open is now part of a travelling exhibition supported by American Friends Service Committee (AFSC). The organisation was founded by Quakers in 1917 dedicated to promote peace and social justice. The exhibit made a second visit to Jersey City recently as a stoic reminder of American soldiers and Iraqi civilians killed in the Iraq War. Outside City Hall, Jersey, 57 pairs of black leather boots and 50 pairs of shoes were exhibited in quiet protest. Each boot had the name, age, and hometown of New Jersey soldiers who died in the Iraq War. The shoes represented Iraqis who perished as a result of the conflict. The boots were placed in lines and the shoes formed a circle with pictures of Iraqi citizens positioned nearby. A small contingent of local volunteers from the American Service Committee were on hand to describe the exhibit. Freelance cameraman, Brian Palmer spoke on his experiences in warfare during both days of the exhibit. Palmer was with the Marine Battalions, on three different occasions and spoke on his experiences in warfare. The speaker was deeply moved after recognising the boots belonging to fallen colleagues. The human cost war and needless loss of life.

According to the Web site Iraq Body Count 3,714 American soldiers have died and over 51,000 are either severely wounded or injured. The estimates just for Iraqis who have died since 2003 have run between 64,000 and 70,000.

Pedal perfection: Top toe technicians give their advice

Top toe technicians in the UK have given their advice for pedal perfection. The five key points are:

The perfect pedicure. Marian Newman, celebrity nail guru.

Clean the cuticles. Nina Taylor, Kate Moss’s foot double in the Rimmel ads.

Remove hard skin with a buffer. Andrea Fulerton, British Nail Professional of the Year 2005 and 2006.

Massage each foot with cream every night for 20 seconds. Bastien Gonzalez the naked pedicure man.

Sea salt footbaths. Margaret Dabbs Member of the British Chiropody & Podiatry Association.

Bear in mind dear reader, your intrepid reporter is neither advocating nor criticising the above, merely reporting it. If you have foot problems, suffer systemic complications, have poor eyesight and or hypertension then you may benfit from the services of professional foot care.

Brave New Scarlett Johansson: New and improved?

Shoes for the coming season are post bling featuring colour, metallics, textures, animal prints and mirrors. Meantime in Hollywood, New York girl, Scarlett Johansson (Best Dressed Yahoo) has revealed her Scarlett "Hearts" Rbk collection of casual lifestyle clothing. The elfin Scarlett has the perfect fit for Reebok’s new women's footwear and apparel collection according to the clothing giant. The actress sketched her new collection on a serviette in a NY eatery, as you do and worked with Reebok designers to produce the much awaited Scarlett "Hearts" Rbk collection. Featured in the footwear collection is retro 70s sport-inspired apparel which includes the Retro Aztec . Same old same old, may appeal to those interested in a new romantic renaissance, but confirms at the same time there is just nothing new on the horizon when it comes to fashion sneakers. There was a time, not too long ago, when it was the inconceivable for young people to wear the same clothes as their parents. The very mark of youth was the need to seek out new and innovative styles but today we see a complete reversal of these trends. Is this a sign of the times in which case, what does it say about today’s society that we crave our immediate past? Whatever happened to a Brave New World? The 70’s Reebok Aztec was a premiere running shoe in 1979, but the thought that there is now a new and improved version does little for me. Except I cannot help wonder with any ’new and improved’ product, the absence of morality and duty of care that companies must face with the full knowledge their previous versions were inferior.

It's the pain so what's the gain FitFlops?

Fit Flops are tipped to be this season’s fashion trend and according to media reports FitFlops are selling out quickly, everywhere. This of course may be due to there being only a limited supply of sandals available for sale. In which case that is clever marketing which instantly creates an artifical demand. According to the manufacturer wearing the shoes tone the leg muscles by virtue of their negative heel design caused through destabilisation of the foot and as an adjunct the inclusion of polymer materials within the soling, dampens down peak shock (presumably at heel strike and through propulsion). There are many studies which would uphold the later claim but few independent investigations to suggest destabilising feet (as is suggested in the sales literature) would benefit muscle tone. Like the manufacturer’s claims for Dr Scholls Exercise Sandals in the late 60s and 70s, I remain unsure whether the structure and presentation of the shoe as a medium, exercised the intrinsic muscles of the foot, or alternatively people wearing the sandals, were more confident and comfortable enough, to walk more. One phenomenon which was peculiar to many DR. Scholl Exercise Sandal wearers was inevitable they experienced difficult in getting used to wearing their sandals. But once they had worn them for a couple of times they considered their exercise sandals to be the most comfortable shoes of their wardrobe. The orthodox heeled shoe as we understand it has its origins in the early 1950s when it was discovered a well placed shank could give greater freedom to the position and size of the shoe heel. The Stiletto was not just an icon but heralded the end of the era for negative heels. Prior to this design innovation and mass production of heeled shoes in the 19th century, heels were positioned more closely to the foot arch and acted as an arch support. By implication maintaining a high arch during ground contact and propulsion helps foot function (aka improves intrinsic muscle control of the foot) but increases peak shock due to the stiffness of the foot which if prolonged would have a potential to cause damage to weight bearing joints. In the 20th century fads and fashions for shoes with negative heels have enjoyed short spells of popularity before becoming passé. Dr School Exercise sandals received such negative publicity the company inevitably relaunched their sandals under a new name. Thank you to the many surfers who have contacted me regarding FitFlops. My advice as with any shoe is the make sure the shoe fits the foot comfortably before purchase. Be prepared to put up with some initial inconvenience with the shoes, but if the discomfort continues beyond what would be a reasonable breaking I period, change you footwear. Keep the container and store the shoes for fifty years because they will become collectors artefacts. A win win situation.

nicekicks.com: The Biz

Cool site netizens, nicekicks.com

Toe jobs: Bollywood style

Bollywood, love or loathe it, cannot be faulted for its detail and authenticity when it comes to period clothing, causing in many instances a renaissance in the older styles. The beauty and grace of traditional apparel is seen by many designers as inspiration for everyday fashion. A few slight changes in cuts, designing and style, and the traditional Indian dress takes on a popular international appeal. Traditional clothing is incomplete without the appropriate traditional accessories and ‘nagras,’ flat sandals, are cutting a swathe for both males and females. Can be worn plain or bejewelled and hand embroidered.

Governor with balls!

There was a time when you could tell at a glance a KGB agent by his double breasted jacket and turn ups on their trousers; and a CIA man by his half mast trousers. Now, Cold War over, things are less clear. Arnold Schwarzenegger (California Governor) on a recent promotional visit to Canada highlighted the problems of sartorial for a man of the people by wearing long pants with his handmade, topstitch leather soled boots with tassel laces. Problem for the Terminator was the tassels should be seen and not covered up. The traditional significance of tassels was the hunter who sported them was prepared to wear the “balls,” of his kill. Not in any derogatory way nor as an insult to the victim, far from it. The intent was to indicate to all, his respect for the departed and the hope the wisdom and strength of the vanquished would be his. Tasslled boots would be the ideal footwear for a brave ambassador, I would have thought. However this should not be combined with a wardrobe mismatch otherwise the ensemble distracts from the given situation. Of all people, Arnold ’ The Termonator’ Schwarzenegger should know everyday is “Judgement Day” when it comes to shoes.

Cheaper fashion is liberating?

Payless Shoe Source have signed a deal with fashion designer Stacey Bendet,(mastermind behind the alice + olivia designer label), to create the alice + Olivia for Payless collection. This new collaboration continues Payless' policy to democratize fashion and the high paid Stacey Bendet joins Laura Poretzky, Lela Rose and style icon Patricia Field as guest designers for Payless. Bendet's footwear collection, will be exclusive to Payless stores and alice + olivia boutiques from the spring and summer 2008.
The showcase of designer shoes will be revealed in September. Stacey Bendet at the alice + olivia shoe will feature "fun and whimsy," whilst Laura Poretzky at the Abaete show will highlight ‘Amerocal International,’ and Lela Rose at the Lela Rose show focus will be on "classic with a twist."

Books for the holiday

A couple of good books for the holidays.

Smit B. "Drei Streifen gegen Puma" ("Three Stripes versus Puma")

Barbara Smit is a free lance financial journalist who has written several well informed books on sport and companies that produce sporting attire. The author extends her exploration into the shoe industry this time, tracking the remarkable rise of the Dassler brothers during Germany's sport-obsessed 1920s, their cooperation with the Nazis, their ugly post-war split and their hatred-driven competition that created separate empires. The book chronicles the decline of both family-run firms caught off guard by U.S. rivals Nike and the failure to spot new trends such as the running boom. A damned good read.


Yasuhiro M Puma - collector’s book 2007

A new collector’s book highlighting the collaboration between PUMA and Mihara Yasuhiro, showcasing artwork and photography created by 4 famous Japanese artists. The inspiration for the works came from the PUMA Mihara footwear collection which began in 2000. The book chronicles the sneakers from MY1 to MY27 which was the first PUMA designer collaboration and became an integral part in establishing PUMA’s Sport/Fashion vision. This is a visually stimulating book and testament to sneaker design collaboration. The book will sell well.


Footnote
The MY1 was the first ever PUMA Mihara sneaker and has now become a classic for many Puma sneaker freakers around the globe.

Michelin shoes roll in

Making shoe outsoles from used car tyres is not a new idea and a few years the tyres off the racing cars of the top drivers were lovingly crafted into shoes for the faithful. In the 1940s, during the Second World War, prisoners at Changi Prison, Singapore, used their dexterity and cunning ingenuity to craft shoes made for old car tyres. Now half a century later tyre giant Michelin the tyre giant have joined their rival Dunlop and launched into the footwear business. They recently launched a new line of industrial work boots which have met with considerable success. Now, hot on the heels, (or should it be wheels), they have introduced Babolat pro-tennis shoes. Developed by Michelin Footwear (a division of Gear Six Technologies LLC), the new MXV4(R) range is being distributed by IGE 3 Corporation, a division of Geoffrey Allen Corporation. Inspired by the tyre tread sculpture of the same name, the MXV4 footwear include two outsoles . What is good for fast moving cars is good enough for pedestrians seems to be the mantra and the shoes feature a rear suspension cushioning system for a comfortable heel strike with a multi-chambered, shock-absorbing heel pad positioned between the insole and midsole. The shoes are handsewn and available with full grain premium leather uppers in variety of different styles with colours to suit the most fashion-forward lifestyles. The Agion(TM) antimicrobial forefoot liner is available to provide effective odor control and resistance to fungal-related foot disorders over the life of the shoe. The new MXV4 footwear line will be available in selected shops across North America for the Autumn season.

I hate podiatrists, Oprah

Seems Tom Cruise is distrustful of podiatrists and claims the profession is a sham defrauding millions of dollars with use of x -rays. Brooke Shields apparently had recently suffered a broken toe caused, it was claimed by height challenged thespian, by an x -ray taken at the office of her podiatrist. The scientologist Cruise made these claims on ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’ This is the second time in recent weeks Cruise has criticized Brooke Shields while espousing Scientology. He recently accused psychiatrist as a frauds in a previous program and again sited Brooke Shields as the mindless victim. In a four minute monologue, Cruise said ‘The thing about Brooke is, like all people who harm their feet, her broken bone is caused by toxins in her blood. But the podiatry industry wants to conduct an x-ray so they can suck the minerals out of her foot and sell them to psychiatrists, who then process them into anti-psychiatry drugs, which are forced upon children and are the leading cause of low SAT scores.’

No he wasn’t talking about the plot for the next MI movie but instead believes his faith gives him healing powers of love, which he would like to share with everone. Mmmmmmmmm.

‘There’s simply no science behind podiatry and people need to know that. It’s not fair that I know all these things after donating $58 million to the Church, but poorer Americans don’t know it yet,’ said Tom Cruise.

Well I have taught podology (the science which underpins the practice of podiatry) for thirty years and can confirm there is little A class evidence based practice to support much of what podiatrists do or any other therapist for that matter. So you got that right, Tom.

Hiwever there is also overwhelming anecdotal evidence to give confidence that podiatry and podiatric techniques are very effective.

Yes, there are some bad eggs in all professions and insurance frauds are sadly all too evident, but as an autonomous body with serious professional integrity, any practitioner caught transgressing the laws of the land are deregistered.

Ne supra crepidam sutor judicaret

In a while Croc-o-file

Crocs Incintroduced their new fashion line for Autumn at the Fashion Footwear Association of New York (FFANY) trade show in New York City. YOU by Crocs™ collection will be available later this year. The new range showcases Crocs’ comfort with Italian design and include styles which integrate leather, canvas and suede. There are even a high heeled Croc (well wedges. Crocs have recently acquired the Italian design firm, EXO Italia and their designers have collaborated to produce a range of fashionable shoes made in closed cell resin, Croslite™. YOU by Crocs™ collection feature a Soleful™ footbed according to the manufacturer which gives added comfort. In the High Spirits fashion range of YOU by Crocs™ collection, the footwear is lined with lamb's wool. Leather and suede are incorporated into the boots and shoes which are available in rich colours with round toe-boxes and wedged heels. The new models will be available in women’s sizes 6-10½ at select retailers and at youbuycrocs.com from September 2007. Also available this coming season will be The Alice, a slim fitting Mary Jane style available in five rich colours: chocolate, grape, ruby, peacock and black. The Alice has a reinforced shank with gives greater arch support and supports the heel with a micro-fibre coating in the shoe. These are available in women’s sizes 4-12, and tipped to be a popular choice. For men keen to be out and about The Venture is a traditional shoe design available in leather and canvas styles. The lightweight leather shoes come in six different two-toned colours including black/charcoal and chocolate/sienna. The Venture Canvas model is available in five two-toned colour combinations including black/black and khaki/eucalyptus. The Venture comes in men’s sizes 7-13. The Mammoth model is a strapless, slip-on shoe similar to the origin Crocs’ clog made in Croslite but with a cozy, soft, shearling lining to keep the feet warm in cold weather. The Mammoth and Kids Mammoth will be available in men’s sizes 4-13, women’s sizes 6-12 and kids' sizes 6/7-M3/W5 and in seven colours including army, chocolate, khaki, red, cotton candy and light blue. The Axle and Kids Axle is a camouflage-patterned rugged outdoor shoe. The Hi Cruiser for men is a high-top suede shoe with a Croslite foot bed. The Celeste Suede and Celeste Canvas for women, are fashionable casual shoes which feature suede or canvas uppers and Croslite foot beds. The Troika for women is a new option for increased protection from the snow and slush. The Kids All Terrain, the popular outdoor model now available in children’s sizes with an easy hook and loop leather fastener.

Spira Running Shoes

You can have a spring in your step but when it comes to springs in your shoes, that is quite a different matter. Appears the International Association of Athletic Federations(IAAF) and USA Track and Field (USATF) have banned their runners from competing in shoes with springs. The reason one can only assume is they consider that it gives an unfair advantage. An attestation if there ever was one, and will send the message loud and clear to the running fraternity. Talk about shooting yourself in the foot? Any runner who wins a race however governed by either organization's guidelines while wearing Spira running shoes is subject to disqualification. It seems more and more marathon athletes wearing the Spira running shoes are winning. Spira's™ patented WaveSpring™ technology produce insoles which have two metal springs, one near the toe area and the other near the heel.
Traditional shoe midsoles are made of foams, rubber compounds, or polymers but have much less recall than the spring insoles according to invitro tests conducted by Sports Biomechanics,Inc., Michigan State University. WaveSpring™ technology appears to have an infinite fatigue life and will last longer than the shoe. CEO of Spira running shoes has filed an antitrust lawsuit in U.S. District Court, suing the IAAF and USATF for $10 million. He claims their policies governing shoes with spring technologies have fostered a "restraint of competition." He claims a ban on the footwear creates a major marketing problem for Spira which obviously adversely affects his companies earning potetnial. If as it appears in runners' testimonials, Spira shoes effectively dampen shock (and impact on weightbearing joints)during extreme events such as marathion running on hard surfaces, then should it ever be shown the spring shoes reduce the effects of osteoarthosis (wear and tear)on the joints,then governing bodies which prevent athletes from taking all reasonable precautions against risk of damage could open themself to greater liabilites.

The IAAF is already embroiled in controversy over the use of a carbon fibre prosthetic used by South African Paralympic gold medallist Oscar Pistorius. They expect to rule out the double amputee's spring legs which single-amputee rivals believe give him an unfair advantage.

I like my Vans

Vans have moved their headquarters back to Cypress, Orange County, after a ten year absence. Orange County is the epi-centre of the action-sports industry with Quiksilver, Etnies and Volcom all based there.VF Corp., bought Vans three years ago and hope to increase their market share across the board. Vans are still popular among thrashers but recent interest from the fashionista has been matched by the growth in the retro market, with many older people now sporting Vans (myself included). The company’s biggest seller is their classics ‘vulcanized‘ footwear. Vulcanized shoes are pretty simple popularised by thrashers keen to shun the giant sneaker companies and feel their boards, again. Prior to this the company produced cupsole or cold cement shoes which were both heavier and bulkier. The skate shoes were quite ornate. Company executives acknowledge the impact of their movie "Dogtown and Z boys" (2001) reawakened interest in the simpler sk8er shoes. In the original, the Z-Boys wore vulcanized shoes and once fashion companies recognised fashion the popularity of the cult they started to produce Van clones. Ironically these companies featured their new collections with models sporting original Vans. Vans were quick to accept the fashion dimension of their footwear and started with designers like Luella Bartley and Rebecca Taylor to produce shoes which sold through high profile fashion outlets. Whilst the company still regards skateboarding as their main market they have plans to develop crepe soled shoes with hemp or suede uppers for r&r; as well as continue with their surf and sandal, and surf and snow markets.

Nike Air Structure Triax: Beam me up Scottie

Nike, Apple iPod Nano have collaborated on Nike Air Structure Triax Trainers. The shoe is considered a good running shoe and when combined with a sensor fitted inside the sock liner conveys when activated information about distance, speed and time travelled to the iPod Nano. In response the MP3 pumps motivational music and vocal coaching tips into the ears of the wearer. On completion the iPod is set into a dock and iTunes sync the music, and workout data. The new system ties in with the nikeplus.com website, allowing runners from around the world to challenge each other and compare their stats, while specialised fitness content, including themed mixes and fitness tips, will be available from the iTunes Music Store.

Blue chip clogs: Celebrity Crocs

Crocs are now worn all over the world from Hollywood to Beijing the plastic shoe is as prolific as the trainer. Despite the phenomenon the shoe fashion police are in turmoil over aesthetic, but shrewd investors are thanking their lucky stars, cheap serviceable shoes are the new vogue. Crocs has a long way to go to overtake Nike but the potential is very good. Crocs went public in February 2006 and market capitalization has just topped the $3 billion mark. Revenues for 2007 are now expected at nearly $700 million and 2008 revenues could top $950 million. Crocs shoes are manufactured from a proprietary resin called Croslite and carries a range of shoes that appeal to almost every demographic set. Available at affordable price points, ranging from $29.99 to $59.99 (US) the comfortable shoes come in bright rainbow colours. The company distribute their products in over 24,000 retailers (more than half are outside the United States). International sales are very important as they carry a higher average selling price. At present Crocs has a gross profit margin at almost 60%, with operating margins between 25-27%. This puts the young company in a very healthy position and especially so when in building/expansion mode. Crocs has the pricing power and high free cash flow to fund expansion and development of new product concepts. Crocs are starting to diversify with product variation and innovation in a bid to capture bigger markets. The company intend to expand the shoe line and other product lines to remain fresh and innovative.

Celebrity Croc wearers include: Nicole Appleton; Mario Batali (celebrity chef); Nikhil Chiapas (MTV host) and his wife Pearl (DJ); Matt Damon; Peter Forsberg ice hockey player; Jennifer Garner ; Teri Hatcher; Faith Hill; Paris Hilton; Mario Lemieux; Tim McGraw; actor Shayan Munshi and wife Pia; Jack Nicholson; Rosie O’Donnel; Al Pacino; designer, Priyadarshini Rao; Adam Sandler; and Harmeet Sethi (stylist).

Interesting site
Crocfans.com

In days of old: Zeitgeist

Fashions in the Middle Ages took centuries to change however something happened at the end of the 15th century when the fashion for long toed shoes in Europe became passé, almost over night. Records, archives and dated paintings all confirm the fashion for extremely broad shoes (Bears Paw) became vogue in a very short space of time. The broad shoes boasted of individual compartments for each toe, and were a podiatrists’ delight. No reason has ever been given to explain this phenomenon. Syphilis was a disease thought to be introduced to Europe in the 15th century (carried back by Christopher Columbus’s crew). Most medical authorities accept disease caused by bacterium treponema palladium, had existed in Europe prior to this time but the new strain was thought to be more virulent and spread by sexual contact. By the beginning of the 16th century the European continent was devastated as the syphilis epidemic spread to Russia, China, India and Africa. Initially physicians were left helpless and refused to treat the suffering, leaving them to barbers, bath attendants and quacks (many of which were corn cutters). The presence of the pox and the knowledge of its transmission gave good reason to influence sexual practice. Until this time, women had practiced birth control with little interference from religious or civil authorities. In periods when marriage was delayed (such as when suitors were off fighting the Holy War), masturbation was ubiquitous with "intimate ceremonies" of courtship common place. In the highly sensual and carnal courting custom of “Donnoi”, naked couples lay together, separated by only a pillow and intimate contact took place. Coitus was considered taboo so with no stretch of the imagination, a long extension on the end of the foot could be put to good use. From the 11th century the length of men’s shoes in Europe got longer and longer until they were 61 cms longer than the foot.
Despite Papal and sumptuary law to prevent lower classes from wearing poulaines (long toed shoes), the fashion continued unabated for four hundred years. Shoes were stiffened with moss and grass and had hawk bells sown on the end, to indicate to all, the wearer was interested in sexual frolic. The long shoes caused men to adopt a wide base, high stepping gait and this became the norm for fashionable courtiers. The tertiary stages of neuro-syphilis leave the syphilitic person with Tabes Dorsalis, a progressive locomotor ataxia which causes people to stoop forward and walk with a wide based, "high-stepping" gait. This is the exact same style enforced on men wearing fashionable poulaines. General paresis (or general paralysis of the insane) describes brain damage causing impaired mental function with serious personality and grandeous delusional behaviors. This often leaves the person a semi imbecile. A new muse appeared across European Courts, the Court Jester or professional fool and many historians believe the fool was there to disarm criticism by making the syphilitic king appear nearly normal. Charcot neuropathy commonly seen in diabetes, today was first described in the 19th century in patients with tertiary syphilis. The condition is a progressive deterioration of weight-bearing joints of the foot or ankle. The discovery of antibiotics markedly reduced the incidence of syphilis in the general population but ironically diabetes mellitus replaced it as the main cause of Charcot neuropathy in modern times. The life expectancy of diabetics in the Middle Ages was short, and few would live long enough to develop Charcot Foot but people living with tertiary syphilis would survive and suffer the later stages of neurosyphilis. In today’s diabetic population, it is estimated almost 50% of people with severe neuropathy have associated plantar ulcerations and the author has postulated the same incidence was found in the Middle Ages, and probably higher. Modern technology allows special shoes, foot orthoses, and walking aids to stabilize and protect the compromised foot. I believe the change in shoe style was necessitated to accommodate the presence of disease and the exact same shie designs are seen today in post surgical moon boots used to support and protect injured tissues and surgical shoes to accommodate insensitive feet. Something strange did happened in the late 15th century which saw a radical shift in shoe design in an unprecedented short period of time. I believe long toed shoes initially were used as sex toys then later protection from sexually transmitted disease. In the aftermath of the virulent syphilis epidemic of the 15th century shoe fashions changed to accommodate Charcot Foot.

Heartbeat shoes

In a recent study published by the respected, celebrity psychologist, Dr Linda Papadopoulos , she found the heart rate of women shopping for shoes synchronised and concluded this demonstrated a female socializing and nurturing instinct. (sic, Clearly she has not witnessed the chaos at a Harrods shoe sale). When women fell for a pair of shoes, their heart rate increased from 80 to 120 beats per minute (the equivalent of a five-minute, aerobic work-out). According to Papadopoulos shoes are emotionally charged items and draw sisters together. Heart beat synchronicity may be an unconscious advantage and helps explain why women buy more shoes than men. The TV psychologist, carried out her study on a group of 35 women only, on behalf of the shoe chain Brantano .